As Fiji approaches the cyclone season, which spans from November to April, Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, Sakiasi Ditoka, has underscored the critical need for household preparedness. The Fiji Meteorological Service anticipates that one to two tropical cyclones may traverse Fiji’s Exclusive Economic Zone during the upcoming 2024-25 season, with a possibility of zero to one of those reaching severe categories (Category 3-5).
Minister Ditoka stressed the importance of personal readiness alongside agency preparedness, urging families to ensure they are well-equipped for potential cyclones. He pointed out the escalating risk of climate-related disasters, highlighting the necessity of incorporating youth perspectives into disaster risk reduction strategies.
He noted that children and young people are especially vulnerable to the immediate and enduring effects of these disasters, such as interruptions to education, nutrition, and healthcare. To shield their future and that of Fiji, Ditoka called for the integration of young people’s needs in disaster planning.
The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015-2030) stresses the significance of empowering youth and involving them in formulating these strategies. Ditoka aligned this vision with the Midterm Review of the Sendai Framework, which champions youth engagement and promotes a culture of disaster prevention.
He emphasized that by investing in education and empowering youth, they can not only protect themselves but also become proactive change agents within their communities. These efforts are particularly relevant as Fijians enhance their early warning systems in alignment with the UN Secretary-General’s Early Warnings for All initiative.
In summary, the article highlights Minister Ditoka’s call for increased household preparedness as Fiji enters cyclone season, while also recognizing the crucial role of youth in disaster risk reduction strategies amid growing climate threats. As communities rally around this message, there is hope for a more resilient future as they prepare for the challenges posed by climate change.
This proactive approach towards involving youth could lead to innovative solutions and greater community engagement in disaster preparedness, fostering a culture of resilience.
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